Motorcycle specifications Harley-DavidsonXL SPORTSTER 1200 CUSTOM 2018 More intense

introduced as a novelty in 2011, the Sportster 1200 Custom is actually a more rebellious evolution of the late XL 1200 C. Perhaps it was perceived as being too fearful of its front end, because the bow of the Sportster C has been beefed up. Tilted at 30°, its 39 mm fork accommodates a smaller front wheel (16" instead of 21") and a much larger gumshoe (from 100 to 130 mm), giving it a chunkier appearance. More style too, with pull-back handlebars, mounted on a riser and tilted backwards.

better suspensions were introduced in 2016. The fork features a new cartridge and 3-way adjustable damping. The rear emulsion amortos can be adjusted for preload. The redesigned saddle should improve the daily life of the posterior.

2014 was also a year of evolution. In addition to various upgrades (electrical system, exhaust, oil tank, controls, HD Smart keyless start), the Sportster announced a significant gain in braking capacity. To this end, it was equipped with ABS as standard, a new aluminum master cylinder, new brake calipers and a 300 mm front brake disc.

underneath its classic appearance, the stern light is actually made up of 3 rows of LEDs. The front headlight is topped by a small, striking cap. A few polished parts, some chrome, and the emblematic 1200 engine. Less torquey but no less interesting than the big 96 ci, this engine distils the essential: character. At just over 12,000 euros, the 1200 C is always worth thinking about, bearing in mind that after the CA version last year, it's the darker 1200 CB that's disappearing from the catalog in 2018.

key features of the 1200 Custom :

- 1200cc air-cooled Evolution® V-Twin engine with E.S.P.F.I. (Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection) - rated at 96 Nm, maximum torque delivery 3750 rpm.
- The engine is finished in black epoxy with chrome crankcases.
- 16 x 3.0-inch chrome-spoke wheels front and rear.
- Michelin® Scorcher® 31 tires; 130/90B 16 front and 150/80B16 M/C 77H rear.
- Wide forks and polished fork crowns.
- Tilt-back handlebars mounted on a curved riser incorporating an LED information dial.
- Redesigned Sportster headlamp nacelle.
- Smaller taillight features a more visible LED system, requiring less maintenance.
- 39 mm front fork with 30-degree angle. Headroom is 105 mm.
- Advanced polished foot controls.
- Preload-adjustable concentric rear shock absorbers.
- Tandem seat as standard. Seat height 725 mm.
- 17-liter fuel tank for greater autonomy.

M.B
(manufacturer's photos)